In the 8th Century BCE, Rome was “the center of man and his activities…”
Blackbriar Thorn
The druids were a sect of ancient Celtic priests/magicians that thrived in Europe.
It is said the druids could control the elements and bring down snow, storm, and darkness — that they could cast mist over the landscape… produce visual illusions… and assume new forms to preserve their very lives.
During the massacre, the legend says, Thorn slipped away into the surrounding wood — and using his Celtic arts, transformed himself in a desperate attempt to elude his pursuers… It was a ploy that might well have worked…
Golden Gladiator
Marcus Tiberius was taken into custody for a crime he didn’t commit, attacking Praetor Clodius Crassus, and sentenced to death.
B-but I am innocent!
When he fends off the lions, Marcus’s captors realize he would bring a high price as a gladiator. Sold for 1,000 pieces of god, he becomes known as “Marcus, the Mighty.”
After defeating both man and beast in the arena, he’s chosen to participate in the chariot races where the winner shall be freed and win the Golden Gladiator award.
Despite the Praetor stacking the deck against him, Marcus wins…
He continued to fight as a mighty warrior, always coming into conflict with Cinna – the corrupt conspirator responsible for his enslavement.
The Brave & the Bold #1
Aug/Sept. 1955 (June 7, 1955)
$0.10
“”Tragic Kingdom”
“The Thunder of the Chariots”
8 pages
Writer: France E. Herron
Artist: Russ Heath
Editor: Robert Kanigher
DC Comics Presents #66
Feb. 1984 (Nov. 3, 1983)
$0.75
“The Resurgence of Blackbriar Thorn”
23 pages
Writer: Len Wein
Penciller: Joe Kubert
Editor: Julius Schwartz
CODEX OMNIVERSA 